Is Cambodia Safe for Women Travelling Alone?

Cambodia is considered generally safe for women solo travellers, especially when the trip is planned carefully and sensibly. Many popular places in Cambodia, such as Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Kampot and Battambang, offer a good range of guided tours, accommodation and transport options, making it easier for women travelling alone to move around with confidence. 

However, solo female travellers should still take sensible precautions, especially when using transport, exploring the places after dark or carrying valuables in crowded places, making their trip to Cambodia more enjoyable, comfortable and less stressful. Here are some useful practical tips to follow while exploring Cambodia independently. 

1. Choose the Right Place to Stay

Travellers should choose an accommodation in a central and well-connected area which is close to restaurants, shops, tourist attractions and basic transport facilities. Visitors can include Siem Reap, Phnom Penh and Battambang in their travel itinerary as these places have many hotels, guesthouses and hostels that are suitable for solo female travellers. 

Useful Tips: 

• Read recent reviews before booking an accommodation
• Check if the hotel or hostel has secure locks and other basic facilities
• Make sure the hotel or hostel has dedicated staff available for help, especially at night
• The place where you plan to stay should have good-lighting and should be located in a reasonably busy area

2. Use Reliable Transport

While travelling alone within Cambodia, women can take tuk-tuk rides that are widely available to cover short distances. For long-distance travel, domestic flights and tourist buses are ideal options. For longer journeys, choose an established transport provider, read recent passenger reviews and travel during daylight where possible. 

Important Points to Remember: 

• Book ride-hailing apps such as Grab and PassApp as they record the driver’s, vehicle’s and journey details.
• Confirm your destination and book your ride in advance. Wait inside a hotel or a shop until your cab or taxi arrives.
• Only hire a scooter if you are an experienced rider, meet local licensing rules and have insurance covering motorcycle use. Always wear a helmet and be ready for traffic rules and road habits may differ from those in your own country.

3. Keep Valuables Secure

Women travelling alone in Cambodia should avoid displaying expensive jewellery, cash or other expensive items as it may attract unwanted attention. Snatching can occur in busy tourist areas, so stay aware of your surroundings and keep your bag securely between your feet and away from the roadside when travelling by tuk-tuk. 

Travel tip: 

• Carry a cross-body bag with a secure zip during sightseeing.
• Keep your phone, passport and cash in a secure place.
• Choose ATMs located inside a bank, shopping complex or a hotel.
• Carry only the money and essential items needed for the day.

4. Plan Evenings Carefully

Cambodia is popular for its lively night markets, social hostels and restaurants, making it possible to enjoy evenings without travelling far. Choose busy and well-lit places and arrange your transport before leaving.

Safety Reminder: 

• Do not accept drinks openly from people you’ve just met, or leave drinks unattended.
• Share your current location and journey details with your friends or a trusted person, especially when travelling late.
• Try to plan your activities close to your hotel or accommodation, mainly if you expect to return late at night. 

5. Respect Local Customs

Visitors should dress modestly, especially when visiting a religious site and a traditional place in Cambodia. At a sacred site such as Angkor, visitors should cover their shoulders and knees. Speak quietly, follow the posted instructions and avoid touching the temple structures or entering restricted areas. 

Useful tip: Carry a lightweight scarf or cover-up in your day bag when visiting temples.

6. Look After Your Health

Falling sick on a trip can ruin your entire journey, and the same applies to Cambodia. The weather can be hot and humid, so drink enough water, use sunscreen and take regular breaks during long sightseeing days.

Helpful Reminder: 

• Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
• Apply sunscreen and take breaks during temple visits.
• Apply mosquito repellent to reduce the risk of mosquito bites.
• Carry a basic first-aid kit with medicines you may need.

Safety Checklist for Women Travelling Alone

• Check the latest travel advisory before travelling to Cambodia.
• Keep digital and printed copies of your passport and other travel documents as backup.
• Save accommodation details offline for easier access.
• Carry a portable power bank to avoid running out of battery.
• Stay on established paths when exploring remote sites and hire a guide for guided tours.
• Purchase an international travel insurance covering medical care, trip delays, lost belongings and any activities you plan to undertake. 
• Save police 117 and fire and rescue 118. Medical emergency services may vary outside Phnom Penh, so keep the nearest hospital’s details available. 
• Check current route and border conditions before travelling, particularly if your itinerary includes areas near the Thailand border.